This could be a refreshing, perhaps unusual experience, especially for the travellers from the USA and Western Europe. Das Reetgedeckte Haus is one of a group of three self-catering dwellings in a wonderful natural setting at the water's edge on the Krakower See, in north-east Germany's distinctive lowland area of lakes. Das Reetgedeckte Haus (The Thatched House) has five apartments and is right on the lake. Also on the grounds are Haus Dobbin and Haus Moellen, both with direct access to the lake. We are usually cautious about the self-catering places, but this is a favourite of our East Germany editors. Each comfortable apartment has its own kitchen, terrace and easy chair. There's plenty to amuse you: boats and bicycles for hire, great walks. The lake is a national park, home to rare water birds. You'll have to brew your own tea and coffee for breakfast, but freshly baked rolls are hung outside your door each morning and included in the price. And - quite an event for this part of the world - there's a Michelin starred restaurant, Ich weiss ein Haus am See, nearby in Krakow am See.